Air cleaner arrangement with end support for cartridge; components; and, methods

ABSTRACT

An air cleaner assembly is described and shown which includes a housing having an air flow inlet, an air flow outlet and a housing body and access cover. A serviceable filter cartridge is positioned within the housing. A projection/receiver arrangement providing for engagement between the cartridge and the housing is provided. The projection/receiver arrangement can be configured in a manner that inhibits undesired motion of the cartridge, once installed. An example projection/receiver arrangement is provided, which includes a serpentine receiving groove on the access cover and a serpentine projection on the filter cartridge. Example filter cartridge features are described.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application is a continuation application of U.S. Ser. No.15/663,997, filed Jul. 31, 2017. U.S. Ser. No. 15/663,997 is acontinuation of U.S. Ser. No. 14/467,222, filed Aug. 25, 2014, now U.S.Pat. No. 9,718,019. U.S. Ser. No. 14/467,222 is a continuation of Ser.No. 13/656,936, filed Oct. 22, 2012, which has issued as U.S. Pat. No.8,814,973 on Aug. 26, 2014. U.S. Ser. No. 13/656,936 is a continuationof U.S. Ser. No. 12/218,580, filed Jul. 15, 2008, and has issued as U.S.Pat. No. 8,292,984. Herein each of the following is incorporated byreference: U.S. Ser. No. 15/663,997; U.S. Ser. No. 14/467,222; U.S. Ser.No. 13/656,936; U.S. Ser. No. 12/218,850; 61/072,162 (filed Mar. 27,2008); U.S. 60/961,522 (filed Jul. 20, 2007); U.S. 60/961,521 (filedJul. 20, 2007); and, U.S. 61/126,222 (filed Apr. 30, 2008). A claim ofpriority is made to each of U.S. Ser. No. 15/663,997; U.S. Ser. No.14/467,222; U.S. Ser. No. 13/656,936; U.S. Ser. No. 12/218,580; U.S.Ser. No. 61/072,162; U.S. Ser. No. 60/961,522; U.S. Ser. No. 60/961,521;and, U.S. Ser. No. 61/126,222 to the extent appropriate.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to air cleaners. It particularly concernsair cleaners in which the main filter cartridge includes an open endwith an internally directed radial seal thereat, and a closed end. Onemember of a projection/receiver arrangement is positioned on the firstend cap. Another member is included in a housing, for securelysupporting the main filter cartridge.

BACKGROUND

Air cleaners are generally used to filter combustion intake air forinternal combustion engines of a variety of vehicles and other equipmentsuch as: trucks; buses; off-road construction equipment; agriculturalequipment; generator sets; etc. Such air cleaners generally include ahousing, an air flow inlet and an air flow outlet. A removable andreplaceable main filter cartridge is positioned in the housing. Thehousing includes a service or access cover, for selected access to theinternally received filter cartridge, for servicing. The filtercartridge is typically serviced by being removed and either: beingreplaced with a factory new cartridge; being refurbished and beingre-installed; or, by being replaced with a previously used, butrefurbished, cartridge. Over the past 20 years, there has been asubstantial of filter cartridges which are sealed to the housing with aradial seal, (either radially inwardly directed or radially outwardlydirected.) Examples are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,547,480; US2006/0254229 A1; U.S. Pat. No. 6,652,614; WO 2007/022171 A1; U.S. Pat.Nos. 6,039,778; and 6,955,701, incorporated herein by reference. In someinstances, with such cartridges, the end of the cartridge remote fromthe seal is supported against cantilevered motion. In such arrangementsas U.S. Pat. No. 5,547,480, as shown in FIG. 2 of that reference,support is provided by a portion of the access cover surrounding theclosed end of the cartridge remote from the seal. In such arrangementsas U.S. Pat. No. 6,652,614, support is provided by a projection on theaccess cover extending internal of the end of the cartridge remote fromthe access cover. In WO 2007/009040 both are included.

Relatively recently, some arrangements have been developed to alsoinhibit rotational movement of the cartridge, once installed. Examplesare described in WO 2007/009040 and WO 2007/022171.

Alternatives have been sought to obtain good support of the maincartridge, against cantilevered movement. Also, in some instances, it isdesirable to provide for a non-rotatable mounting of the filtercartridge within the housing. Further it has been desirable to developan air cleaner assembly arrangement in which an attempt to install anunapproved cartridge (incorrect cartridge) is readily recognizable.

SUMMARY

Examples of specific arrangements and features are described and shown.There is no specific requirement that an arrangement include all of thefeatures characterized herein, to obtain some benefit according to thepresent disclosure.

In one aspect an air cleaner arrangement is provided which comprises anair cleaner housing and a serviceable air filter cartridge. The aircleaner housing includes an air flow inlet arrangement and an air flowoutlet arrangement. The air cleaner housing defines an housing interiorand comprises a housing body and an access cover.

The serviceable air filter cartridge is operably positioned within thehousing interior. The air filter cartridge comprises a media packextending between first and second end caps. The media pack surroundsand defines an open filter interior. The first end cap is an open endcap having an air flow aperture therethrough. The second end cap istypically a closed end cap having and outer end surface. The term “outerend surface” in this context refers to a surface facing generally awayfrom the first end cap.

A housing seal arrangement is provided on the first end cap and isoriented for sealing to the air cleaner housing. The housing sealarrangement can comprise a radially directed seal. In an example shown,the housing seal is a radially inwardly directed seal.

A projection/receiver arrangement including first and second members isprovided. One (e.g., a second) member of the projection/receiverarrangement is positioned on the access cover. It typically comprises aserpentine ring member, and can either be a ring projection or a ringshaped receiver groove. In the example depicted, the member of theprojection/receiver arrangement, which is positioned on the accesscover, comprises a serpentine receiving groove.

Another (i.e., first) member of the projection/receiver arrangement ispositioned on the outer end surface of the end cap. It is engageablewith the access cover, in a defined manner.

In general, the first and second members of the projection/receiverarrangement are engaged to provide cantilevered support of the airfilter cartridge at the second end. Typically and preferably the firstand second members of the projection/receiver arrangement are alsoengaged in a non-rotatable manner. By “non-rotatable manner” it iscontext, it is meant the engagement inhibits rotation of the filtercartridge with respect to the access cover (and thus the housing) onceinstallation has occurred.

In an example provided, the second member of the projection/receiverarrangement is a groove receiver on the access cover, and the firstmember of the projection/receiver arrangement is an axial ringprojection on the filter cartridge.

In an example depicted, the first member of the projection/receiverarrangement (i.e., the member on the filter cartridge) is a serpentinering member comprising alternating convex and concave portions. In thatexample, the second member is a serpentine groove on the access cover.

In a specific example of an air cleaner assembly, as depicted, theassembly includes a housing including an air flow inlet arrangement andan air flow outlet arrangement; and, comprises a housing body and anaccess cover; and, a serviceable filter cartridge operably positionedwithin the housing. The access cover includes, in an example depicted, aserpentine receiving groove therein. The cartridge includes a projectionwhich extends into the serpentine receiving groove of the access cover.In a typical application, as a result of the shape of the serpentinegroove on the access cover, the cartridge is supported againstrotational motion and against cantilevered motion once installed.

Also disclosed are components for an air cleaner assembly, including,for example, a filter cartridge. An example filter cartridge isdescribed which includes a projection on a closed end, that includes atleast one arcuate section in which the at least one arcuate section isnot a section of a curve corresponding to a circle extending around acenter of the end cap. An example arrangement corresponding to this, isdescribed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic, exploded, perspective view of an air cleanerassembly according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a schematic side elevational view of the air cleaner depictedin FIG. 1; in FIG. 2 selected portions being shown in cross-sectionalview, for inspection of interior detail.

FIG. 3 is a schematic, enlarged, outlet end elevational view of theassembly depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 4 is a schematic outside end view toward a second, closed, end capof a primary filter cartridge assembly of FIGS. 1-3.

FIG. 5 is a fragmentary, schematic, cross-sectional view taken generallyalong line 5-5, FIG. 4.

FIG. 5A is a schematic, fragmentary, enlarged, view of a portion of thesurface depicted in FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a schematic outside end elevational view of an access covercomponent of the assembly of FIGS. 1-3.

FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7, FIG. 6.

FIG. 7A is an enlarged, schematic, fragmentary, perspective view of theselected portion of the inside surface of the access cover, depicted inFIG. 6; the enlargement being of a portion of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7B is an enlarged schematic, fragmentary view of a selected portionof FIG. 7A, shown in plan view.

FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view depicting engagement betweenthe cartridge of FIG. 5 and the access cover of FIG. 7.

FIG. 8A is an enlarged fragmentary, view of a selected portion of FIG.8.

FIG. 8B is an exploded enlarged fragmentary, schematic viewcorresponding to FIG. 8A.

FIG. 9 is a fragmentary, schematic view of a portion of FIG. 1.

FIG. 10 is a schematic side elevational view of the second embodiment ofan air cleaner according to the present disclosure; in FIG. 10 selectedportions are shown in cross-sectional view, for inspection of interiordetail.

FIG. 11 is schematic enlarged cross-sectional view of filter cartridgeelement of the air cleaner in FIG. 10; in FIG. 11, portions are shown incross-section.

FIG. 12 is schematic, enlarged fragmentary view of a selected portion ofFIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a schematic end view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 11.

FIG. 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an end cap component ofthe filter cartridge of FIG. 11, taken along line 14-14, FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a second schematic cross-sectional view of the end capcomponent with the cartridge of FIG. 11; the cross-sectional view ofFIG. 15 being taken along line 15-15, FIG. 13.

FIG. 16 is an enlarged, schematic, cross-sectional view of an accesscover component of the air cleaner assembly in FIG. 10.

FIG. 17 is a schematic view of an internal surface of the access covercomponent of FIG. 16.

FIG. 18 is a schematic side elevational view of an alternate accesscover component.

FIG. 19 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the alternate accesscover component of FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 is a schematic side elevational view of a modified embodiment ofan air cleaner according to the present disclosure; in FIG. 20 selectedportions being shown in cross-sectional view, for inspection of internaldetail.

FIG. 21 is a schematic side elevational view of an access covercomponent, of the assembly of FIG. 20.

FIG. 22 is a schematic external end view of the access cover componentof FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is a schematic internal view of the access cover component ofFIG. 21.

FIG. 24 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line 24-24, FIG.22.

FIG. 25 is schematic, enlarged fragmentary view of taken along line25-25,

FIG. 22.

FIG. 26 is a schematic enlarged end elevational view of a closed end capcomponent of a filter cartridge in the assembly of FIG. 20.

FIG. 27 is a schematic, enlarged cross-sectional view of the end capcomponent of FIG. 26, taken generally along line 27-27, thereof.

FIG. 28 is a view of an interior side of the end cap of FIGS. 26 and 27.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION I. Example Air Cleaner Assembly and Components;FIGS. 1-9

The reference numeral 1, FIG. 1, generally indicates an air cleanerassembly according to the present disclosure. The air cleaner assembly 1includes a housing 2 having a housing body 3 and an access or servicecover 4. The assembly 1 includes a removable and replaceable, i.e.,serviceable, filter cartridge 5.

Referring to FIG. 1, the housing 1 (in particular the housing body 3)includes mounting pads 8 thereon, for securement to framework of avehicle or other equipment on which the air cleaner assembly 1 issecured, for use. A variety of orientations of mounting pads 8 can beused, within the principles of the present disclosure. In somearrangements instead of mounting pads formed integrally with the housingbody, a mounting band arrangement can be used.

In general, the housing body 3 comprises a side wall 10 having a firstopen end 11 and opposite second end 12 with a first air flow passageway13 thereat. The housing 2 further includes, in the example shown, secondair flow passageway 15.

For the particular example shown, air flow passageway 13 is an airflowoutlet passageway defined by outlet tube 13 a; and airflow passageway 15is an inlet air flow passageway defined by inlet tube 15 a. It is notedthat for the example shown, both airflow passageways 13 a, 15 a arelocated in the housing body 3. In some alternate applications to theprinciples described herein, one of the airflow passageways, for exampleinlet air flow passageway 15, can be located in access cover 4.

Further, for the example shown, airflow passageways 13 a, 15 a are eacha single aperture. However, in alternate applications techniques herein,one or more of the passageways 13 a, 15 a can be defined by multipleapertures.

The air flow inlet 15 provides for passage of air to be filtered, intoair cleaner 1. The particular air flow inlet 15 depicted, is positionedto direct that air through side wall 10.

In operation, the air filter cartridge 5 is inserted into the housingbody 3 through open end 11. Access cover 4 is then fit over the open end11 and cartridge 5, to close the open end 11. In an example shown, thehousing 2 includes a closure arrangement 20 comprising a plurality oflatches 21. Access cover 4 is secured in place on the housing end 11 bythe closure arrangement 20. In the particular example air cleanerarrangement 1 depicted, closure arrangement 20 (comprising latches 21)is mounted on the access cover 4 for selected engagement with thehousing body 3. It is noted that in some alternate applications of thetechniques described herein, latches 21 can be positioned on the housingbody 3 for engagement with the access cover 4. Still referring to FIG.1, the cartridge 5 generally comprises a media pack 25 extending betweenfirst and second opposite end caps 26, 27. In a typical arrangement, endcap 27 will be a closed end cap, i.e., it has no apertures therethrough,through which air can flow. End cap 26, however, will typically be anopen end cap, including central open air flow aperture 29 therethroughand around which the media pack 25 extends.

The media pack 25 can include media 25 a selected from a variety oftypes of media. The media pack 25 may, for example, comprise pleatedmedia, although alternatives are possible. In many arrangements, themedia pack 25 will be provided with one or more of inner and outersupport liners for the media 25 a. Such support liners can, for example,comprise plastic arrangements, expanded metal arrangements or porousmetal arrangements.

In a typical media pack 25, the media 25 a surrounds and defines an openinterior 30. The aperture 29, in the first end cap 26, is generally inair flow relationship with the open interior 30. By “air flowrelationship” in its context, and variants thereof, it is meant that theaperture 29 opens into the interior 30, and air can flow between the twowithout passage through the media pack 25.

It is noted that the techniques described herein can be applied and usedwith, in addition to the primary filter cartridge 5, a secondary orsafety filter cartridge. The example depicted in the figures does notshow a safety cartridge. However, a safety cartridge can be positionedinternally of an interior 30. This would require the air, once thoughthe media 25 a, to pass through the safety cartridge before exiting thehousing 2, through airflow exit 13.

A typical media pack 25 can be provided in a variety of shapes, forexample it can be cylindrical, or have a conical taper to it. When themedia pack 25 has a conical taper, in a typical application, the taperwill be downwardly (inwardly) from end cap 26 toward end cap 27. Thetypical conical angle (taper inward) when used, would be at least about0.5 degrees usually at least 1.0 degree and often within the range of1.0-6.0°, including, although alternatives are possible.

The particular air cleaner assembly 1 depicted, is configured for“forward” flow. By “forward” in this context, it is meant that air,during filtering, generally flows through media pack 25 from exteriorinto the open interior 30 (sometimes referred as out-to-in flow.) Thus,when air cleaner assembly 1 is operated, air to be filtered flowsthrough inlet 15, into an annulus 35 (FIG. 2) within housing 2 (andaccess cover 3) that extends around the filter cartridge 5. The air thenpasses through the media pack 25 into open interior 30. The air thenpasses from the cartridge 5 through open end 29, and leaves the aircleaner through inlet air flow outlet 13.

In those instances in which a safety filter is used, the air from themain filter cartridge 5 would pass through the safety filter, afterpassage through cartridge 5 and before exit through the outlet 13.

Many of the principles described herein can be applied with “reverseflow” or “in-to-out flow” arrangements, in which air, during filtering,passes from interior 30 through the media pack 25, to an exteriorlocation.

In typical operation, the housing body 3 is secured to the equipmentsuch as a truck, with which the air cleaner 1 is used, and the accesscover 4 is separable from the main body 3, for service access tocartridge 5.

In general, cartridge 5 includes a housing seal arrangement 38 on endcap 26, sealed into a portion of the housing 2, when cartridge 5 isinstalled.

Referring to FIG. 1, it is noted that the housing 2 (comprising body 3and access cover 4) is configured for each of the two components to bemolded from a plastic, for example a glass filled polypropylene. Theprinciples described herein are particularly adapted for plasticarrangements, however they can be utilized when one more of thecomponents 3,4, or portions of the components 3,4 comprise sheet metal.

Attention is now directed to FIG. 2. In FIG. 2 a side elevational viewof air cleaner assembly 1 is depicted. In FIG. 2, air cleaner assembly 1is shown with access cover 4 secured to housing body 3. Also in FIG. 2,a portion of air cleaner assembly 1 is depicted in cross-section, sothat internal detail can be viewed. Referring to FIG. 2, air flowannulus 35 around cartridge 5 is viewable. The example air flow annulus35 extends completely radially around cartridge 5, for distribution ofair to be filtered around the cartridge 5, during operation.

Referring to FIG. 2, end cap 26 is viewable in cross-section. Ingeneral, cartridge 5 includes a housing seal arrangement 38 on end cap26, sealing a portion to the housing 2 when cartridge 5 is installed.The end cap 26, for the specific example shown, defines a radial sealportion 38 a around opening 29. The radial seal portion 38 a isgenerally oriented to form an inwardly directed radial seal against anouter surface of tube 39, when cartridge 5 is installed. Such inwardlydirected radial seal arrangements are described, for example, in U.S.Pat. Nos. 5,547,480; 6,652,614; WO 2007/022171; 6,039,778; and,6,955,701. It is noted that a variety of alternate housing sealarrangements locations and configurations can be used in the cartridge 5and the housing 3 according to the present disclosure. Outwardlydirected radial seals, for example, can be used, although still furtheralternatives are possible.

A variety of specific arrangements can be utilized to form inwardlydirected radial seal portion 38 a. In a typical arrangement, the end cap26 will be a molded-in-place end cap comprising a foamed polyurethanesuch as those described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,955,701. Such materials canbe formed, during the molding process, to define radial seal portion 38a in aperture 29.

Still referring to FIG. 2, it is noted that for the particular exampleair cleaner assembly 1 depicted, the cartridge 5 is sufficiently long toproject into the access or service cover 4. For example, referring toFIG. 2, portion 5 x of cartridge 5 extends beyond the housing body 3into the access cover 4. In a typical example, this extension would beat least 30 mm and typically within the range of 40-75 mm, inclusive, ofcartridge length between the end caps 26 and 27. The principlesdescribed herein, however, can be applied in arrangements in which aseparation line (indicated at 40, FIG. 2), between the access cover 4and the housing body 3 is located beyond end cap 27, in a direction awayfrom end cap 26.

Referring to FIG. 2, it can be seen that the air filter cartridge 5 wheninstalled, is secured at end cap 26 around tube 39, and is supported atthis location. At the opposite end, i.e., the cartridge end where endcap 27 is located, the cartridge 5 should be supported, or the airfilter cartridge 5 will be cantilevered with respect to the housingtube. Support to the cartridge 5 from the housing 2 at end cap 27, whichprevents undesirable levels of cantilevered movement will be referred toas “cantilevered” or “cantilever end” support, or by similar terms.Herein, cantilevered support is provided at end cap 27, by engagementbetween a portion of the access cover 4 and a portion of the end cap orcover 27, as discussed below.

In more general terms, a projection/receiver arrangement is providedwith one member on end cap 27 and another member on access cover 4,providing for an engagement in a manner which inhibits cantileveredmotion of cartridge 5 at end cap 27.

Referring to FIG. 2, the media 25 a can be seen as having opposite ends25 b, 25 c; end 25 b being adjacent end cap 27 and end 25 c beingadjacent end cap 26. Media 25 a and thus the cartridge 5, is supportedat end 25 c by the insertion of tube 39 into end cap 26. However end 25b, remote from end 25 c is cantilevered. Herein “cantilevered motion”and variants thereof, is meant to refer to movement (not rotational)that could occur at end 25 b, remote from tube 39, if end cap 27 is notappropriately supported. The particular motion referenced, with respectto cantilevered motion, is a vibrational movement, i.e., not arotational movement. Cantilevered motion, then, would be up and downmovement of media end 25 b, or back and forth movement of media end 25b, or some combination thereof.

In general terms, then, cantilevered support is support of cartridge 5against undesirable levels of cantilevered motion. That is, the effortis not necessarily to prevent any vibrational movement, but only toinhibit movement beyond some acceptable level.

The engagement at end cap 26, for the example air cleaner assemblydepicted, is a circular, inwardly directed, radial seal. Thus, it isradially symmetric, and subject to potential rotation of the cartridge 5around tube 39. Support at end cap 27 through engagement between the endcap 27 and the access cover 4 (in a form described herein) also inhibitsrelative rotational motion of the cartridge 5, relative to access cover4, once installed. Since the access cover 4 is secured in place on thebody 3, this inhibits rotation of end cap 26 around tube 39, oncecartridge 5 is installed.

An engagement between the access cover 4 and the cartridge 5 thatinhibits undesirable levels of rotational movement of one relative theother will be referred to herein as “non-rotatable” engagement. Again,since the access cover 4 is generally non-rotatably secured in place inthe housing body 3, by arrangement 20, a non-rotatable engagementbetween the access cover 4 and the cartridge 5 inhibits the cartridge 5from rotating about tube 39 once installed.

Still referring to FIG. 2, access cover 4 includes an ejection port 45therein. Water and/or dust can be ejected through port 45, duringoperation. Typically, air cleaner 1 is installed with dust and waterejection port 45 angled downwardly.

Referring again to FIG. 2, it is noted that the access cover 4 includesno projection or shield, extending axially therefrom (toward end 12 ofbody 3) and spaced inwardly from side 4 x which also surrounds thecartridge 5. The absence of such a shield facilitates flow of air aroundend 27 and direction of dust and water toward evacuation outlet 45. Italso means the no portion of the media at 25 is covered up, from flowtherearound.

Alternately stated, access cover 4 includes an outer rim 4 x whichengages body 3, when access over 4 is mounted. The rim section 4 x, FIG.2 is the only portion of the access cover 4, in the example shown, whichsurrounds an outer side portion of the media pack 25.

Still referring to FIG. 2, it is also noted that for the particularexample cartridge 5 depicted, no portion of end cap 27 projects intointerior 30 a substantial amount; a substantial amount in this contextmeaning a projection of 10 mm or more. Thus, for the specific exampleshown there is no structure projecting 10 mm into the cartridge interior30 around which the media pack 25 extends.

In FIG. 2, example dimensions for the example air cleaner arrangementdepicted are provided as follows: AA=31.9 mm; AB=52°; AC=582 mm; AD=190mm; AE=263.6 mm; AF=184 mm; AH=366 mm; AG=182 mm; AI=34 mm; AJ=60 mm;AM=280 mm; AK=50.5 mm; and AL=54 mm. Other dimensions can be estimatedfrom scale.

Of course the dimensions are merely meant to indicate a useable examplearrangement. Alternate dimensions and arrangements can be utilized, withprinciples according to the present disclosure.

Attention is now directed to FIG. 3. In FIG. 3, an end elevational viewof air cleaner assembly 1 is depicted. In FIG. 3, the view is directedtoward housing end 12 and outlet 13. Here, pad arrangement 8 forsecuring the housing 2 to place on equipment is also viewable.

In FIG. 3, one can view through tube 13 into interior 30 of cartridge 5.

In FIG. 3, example dimensions of the air cleaner assembly 1, FIGS. 1-3,are indicated as follows: BA=180 mm; BB=83.5 mm; BC=45°; BE=90°; BK=300mm; BG=141 mm, BH=153 mm, BD=D 10 mm, and; BF=5 mm.

Referring again to FIG. 2, for the particular cartridge 5 depicted, endcap 27 comprises a closed end cap, having no aperture therethrough, andextending across end 25 b of the media pack 25; an opposite end 25 c ofmedia pack 25 being embedded in end cap 26. For a typical arrangement,although alternatives are possible, end cap 27 will comprise a preformedpiece, to which media pack 25 is potted with an adhesive or sealantmaterial. Typically, end cap 27 will comprise a preformed plasticmaterial, such as an ABS potted with a hard polyurethane.

Alternately stated, (and as previously discussed) in a typicalapplication end cap 26 will be molded-in-place from a resin appropriateto form a soft, compressible, structure, i.e., the media pack 25 will beinserted into the material of end cap 26 as the material hardens and ismolded to the designed shape. While this is not required, it will betypical for any applications of the present principles.

End cap 27, in contrast, is typically molded first from a materialappropriate to form a rigid plastic, part and is then attached to end 25b for example with a potting adhesive. Although alternatives arepossible, this will be typical and convenient.

In FIG. 4, an end view of cartridge 5 is provided. The end view ofcartridge 5 is taken directed toward end cap 27. Thus, the structuralsurface viewable in FIG. 4 is exterior surface 27 x of end cap 27, FIG.2.

In FIG. 4, example dimensions and angles are follows: CA=45°; CB=22.5°;CC=3.3 mm radius; CD=5.4 mm radius; CF=16.8 mm radius; CG=3.5 mm radius;CI=41.6 mm diameter; and, CH=87 mm diameter.

In FIG. 5, a cross-sectional view is taken along line 5-5, FIG. 4. Hereboth exterior surface 27 x and interior surface 27 i are viewable in endpiece 27.

FIG. 5 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view. End 25 b of media pack 25is viewable in fragmentary view.

Referring to FIG. 5, end cap 27 includes an outer rim 51. The outer rim51 fits around (circumscribes) the media pack 25. Along interior surface27 i, end piece 27 includes a rib 53. Rib 53 operates as a mediastandoff, during assembly. That is, when the media pack 25 is fit withinend 51, the media pack 25 abuts rib 53 during potting. Projection 55forms an inside of a containment ring for the media pack 25 and pottingmaterial (the outside containment provided by rim 51). That is, duringassembly of cartridge 5, the media pack 25 is positioned with end 25 bthereof oriented between rim 51 and inner projection 55. A pottingmaterial is positioned at this location, to secure end piece 27 in placeon the media pack 25. Stand off rib 53 will ensure that the sealing orpotting material can seal between end 27 b of the media pack 25, andperimeter ring portion 58 of inner surface 27 i.

Previously it was discussed that in a typical arrangement, althoughalternatives are possible, there is no projection extendingsubstantially into interior 30, from end cap 27. It can be seen thatprojection 55 is relatively small, and does not extend 10 mm intointerior 30.

Referring to FIG. 4, end surface 27 x, then, includes an outer ringsection 65 in overlap with media pack 25 in cartridge 5. Outer surface27 x further includes an inner central, portion 66, surrounded by outerring 65. The central portion 66, in the cartridge 5, FIG. 2, is not inaxial overlap within media pack 25, but rather overlaps the interiorregion 30 that is surrounded by the media pack 25.

Referring to FIG. 4, region 65 and rim 51 can be viewed as having acircular orientation around center 27 z of end cap 27.

In general, herein a projection/receiver arrangement is provided forengagement between the cartridge 5 and the access cover 4. Inparticular, the projection/receiver arrangement depicted provides forengagement between the cartridge end cap 27 and the access cover 4, in amanner that supports the cartridge 5 against undesirable levels ofcantilevered motion at end cap 27; and, inhibits relative rotationalmotion between the cartridge 5 and the access cover 4 (and thus betweenthe cartridge 5 and the outlet tube 39 in air cleaner assembly 1).

In general terms, the projection/receiver arrangement includes aprojection member on a first one of cartridge 5 and access cover 4; and,receiver member on another one of the access cover 4 and cartridge 5.For the particular example depicted, the projection/receiver arrangementincludes a projection (first) member arrangement on the cartridge 5, anda receiver (second) member arrangement on the access cover 4; however,alternatives are possible.

Referring to FIG. 5, the central portion 66, of end cap outer surface 27x, includes thereon projection arrangement 70. In general terms, theprojection arrangement 70 projects from a remainder of end cap 27, in adirection away from the end 256 of media pack 25; i.e., in a generaldirection away from opposite end cap 26. The distance of projection 70indicated at dimension CJ, FIG. 5, is typically at least 10 mm, usuallyat least 15 and often within the range of 20 to 40 mm. In the exampledepicted, the dimension CJ is 25 mm.

The direction of projection 70 is generally axial, i.e., in thedirection corresponding to the general direction of central axis X, FIG.2 and away from end cap 26. By “axial” in this context, it is not meantthat the projections of outer and inner surfaces 70 o, 70 i ofprojection 70 are necessarily precisely parallel to axis X. Indeed eachcan be angled from axis X somewhat.

Typically outer surface 70 o slants inwardly, along a direction ofextension from an adjacent region of end cap 27; and, inner surface 70 islants outwardly along its direction of extension from an adjacentregion of end cap 27. This angle of slant inwardly of surface 70 o isindicated at CK, and is generally within the range of 3-7°; inclusive.The corresponding angle of extension outwardly surface 70 i is indicatedat CM and typically within the range of 3−7°; inclusive. In the exampledepicted, FIG. 5, CK and CM are each 5.6°.

Angles to surfaces 70 o, 70 i of the type indicated, provide theprojection 70 with an axially outermost tip 70 t, which is narrowedsomewhat relative to a base region 70 b of projection 70. A somewhatnarrow tip 70 t facilitates insertion into a receiver arrangement,described below, on access cover 4.

Attention is now directed to FIG. 5A, a schematic, fragmentary, planview of projection arrangement 70 taken in a general direction of arrow80, FIG. 5. It is noted that in FIG. 5A, the schematic depictionprovides the general shape of projection 70 in plan view, and does notaccount for a slant to sides 70 o, 70 i.

Referring to FIG. 5A, although alternatives are possible, the particularprojection arrangement 70 depicted comprises a continuous wall 84. By“continuous” in this context, it is meant that there are no gaps in thewall 84 with respect to extension around the perimeter defined by thewall 84; i.e., around center 27 z.

Also, although alternatives are possible, the wall 84 is completely“closed.” By this it is meant that the wall 84 includes no aperturestherethrough, in its continuous extension.

Referring to FIG. 5, the cross-section, it is also noted that for theparticular example depicted, the projection 70 is “solid” throughout;i.e. does not have a hollow interior between surfaces 70 o, 70 i. Thiswill be typical and convenient.

The projection arrangement 70 generally has a minimum largest externaldimension thereacross, corresponding to dimension D₁, FIG. 5A of atleast 35 mm and often within the range of 40 to 100 mm. A reason forthis is that it facilitates engagement with the access cover 4, in atypical preferred arrangement.

The particular wall 84 depicted surrounds an open and recessed interiorsurface section 85. This section typically has a smallest internaldimension access shown at D₂, of at least 15 mm typically at least 20 mmand often within the range of 30 to 90 mm.

Typically, projection 70 is configured around center 27 z such that theminimum largest dimension thereacross indicated at D₁, can be measuredin at least two directions at right angles to one another; i.e., D₁indicated in FIG. 5a would also indicate a minimum largest dimension ina direction perpendicular to line D₁. Further, typically theconfiguration of the objection 70 is such that the smallest insidedimension thereacross, indicated at D₂, is met in two directions, thefirst direction being for example as indicated at line D₂, and a seconddimension taken perpendicular to the first dimension.

Typically the projection 70 has a depth of extension from its tip 70 tover a distance of at least 6 mm (and typically at least 12 mm) in whichthe thickness of projection 70 does not exceed 10 mm, but is typicallyat least 4 mm (discounting tapering at the very tip.) This would be forexample a width between walls 70 i, 70 o, extending inwardly from tip 70t at least a depth of 25% and typically at least 35% of its extent ofprojection. Of course near the base 70 b, FIG. 5, projection 70 maythicken (widen) somewhat.

The particular, closed, continuous wall 84 depicted, has a serpentineouter surface 88 and a serpentine inner surface 89, corresponding tosurfaces 70 o, 70 i respectively. By “serpentine” in connection with theouter surface 88, it is meant that extension around center 27 z, outersurface 88 does not define a series of straight lines or even a circle,but rather a series of alternating inner and outer curves. For theexample shown serpentine surface 88 comprises a plurality of radiallyoutwardly facing convex sections 88 c, and a plurality of radiallyoutwardly facing concave sections 88 d alternating with one another.

Referring to outer surface 88, the reference to a “radially outwardlyfacing convex section 88 c” is meant to refer to a section of surface 88which curves outwardly; and the reference to “radially outwardly facingconcave sections 88 d” is meant to refer to a section of surface 88which curves inwardly.

Analogously, radially inwardly facing inner surface 89 is alsoserpentine, comprising a plurality of radially inwardly facing convexsections 89 c and radially inwardly facing concave sections 89 d,alternating with respect to one another, as the inner surface 89 extendsaround center 27 z. For the example depicted, each concave section 89 dof inner surface 89 corresponds with, and aligns radially with, a convexsection 88 c of outer surface 88; and, each convex section 89 c of innersurface 89 is aligned radially with concave section 89 d of outersurface 88.

For the particular example shown, wall 84 defines, in each of the outersurface 88 and inner surface 89, eight concave sections and eight convexsections. Further: (a) a curvature of each convex 88 c section ofsurface 88 is the same as each other convex section 88 c in surface 88,and, (b) a curvature of each concave section 88 c is the same as eachother concave 88 d. The same is true for each cover section 89 c andeach concave section 89 d. The result is a regular “petal” shape toprojection 70. By the term “petal” in this context, it is meant thatwhen viewed in plan view, the projection 70 can be seen to have aplurality of outwardly projecting petals, i.e., curved sections. By theterm “regular” in this context, it is meant that each outwardlyprojecting petal has the same shape as each other outwardly projectingpetal. Referring to FIG. 5A, it is also noted that the center of eachconvex section 88 c in the outer surface 88, for the example shown, canbe seen to define a vertex of an octagonal shape, indicated at phantomlines at 95. Further, each center point of each concave section 89 c insurface 89 can be seen to define a center point in a side of aninternally positioned octagon depicted in phantom lines at 96. Theoctagons 95, 96 are radially aligned, one spaced from the other.

In more general terms, serpentine projection 70 comprises a plurality ofoutward convex petal sections and inward concave sections, providing fora serpentine extension of wall projection 70 around center 27 c.

Typically, for reasons discussed below, the curvature of each outwardlydirected convex section 89 c is such as to have a smaller radius ofcurvature than a hypothetical curvature of such a section if directedon, or positioned on, a circle centered on center 27 z. This is apparentby referring to FIG. 4 and comparing the curvature of circle C1 to thecurvature of outer convex sections 88 c.

Referring to FIG. 5, the indicated dimensions are as follows: Aspreviously discussed, CJ=25 mm; CK=5.6°; and CM=5.6°. In addition, CL=4mm radius; and CN=5 mm radius.

Attention is now directed to FIGS. 6 and 7, in which portions of accesscover 4 are viewable. It is noted that in FIGS. 6 and 7, access cover 4is depicted without closure arrangement 20 thereon, for convenience.

Referring to FIG. 6, the view of access cover 4 depicted is generallytoward exterior surface 4 y. In FIG. 7, a cross-sectional view takenalong line 7-7, FIG. 6 is viewable.

Referring to FIG. 7, access cover 4 generally includes end wall 100 andside wall 101; side wall 101 corresponding to side wall 4 x, FIG. 2.Side wall 101 includes open end 101 a positioned and sized forengagement with housing body 3, FIG. 1. Side wall 101, for the exampleshown, is sized to surround a portion of cartridge 5, to, duringassembly. Central section 100 is a central, end, section of access cover4 that includes water/dust ejector port 45 therein. In use, the port 45would typically be provided with a valve member.

Still referring to FIG. 7, access cover 4 includes an interior surface 4i with a central region 100 i. Central region 100 i includes thereon asecond member 105 of a projection/receiver arrangement. The secondmember of the projection/receiver arrangement 105 is sized, configuredand positioned for selective engagement with a first member of aprojection/receiver arrangement, on cartridge 5.

The particular air cleaner assembly 1 as discussed so far, the cartridge5 includes a projection 70 of a projection/receiver arrangement thereon.Therefore, the access cover 4 includes a receiver member 110 thereon,positioned for engagement with projection member 70.

Referring to FIG. 7, receiver member 110 defines a receiver groove 111in cover interior surface 4 i. The receiver groove 111 generally extendsaround a central axis Y on access cover 4. It is noted that for theparticular example, groove 111 is not centered around line Y, but ratheris eccentrically positioned relative thereto.

In FIG. 7A, a fragmentary schematic, perspective, view of receivergroove 111 is depicted. The groove 111, FIG. 7A, is depicted in a viewcorresponding to an enlarged portion of FIG. 1.

Referring to FIG. 7A, receiver groove 111 defined between an outer wall112 and an inner wall 113. The example receiver groove 111 depicted iscontinuous. By “continuous” in this context, it is meant for theparticular example depicted, the groove 111 extends around a center 125,FIG. 7A, in a continuous uninterrupted path; i.e., the groove 111 doesnot includes any barriers or blockages therein, in its extension.

Attention is now directed to FIG. 7B. FIG. 7B is a schematic plan viewof groove 111. The schematic plan view of FIG. 7B does not show thetapering of the side walls, but otherwise shows the general shape.

The particular receiver groove 111 is serpentine in shape, having convexsections 115 and concave sections 117, alternating with respect to oneanother. Herein reference to a “convex” section in this context, ismeant to refer to an outward bow or bend relative to center 125, and a“concave” section is meant to refer to an inward bend or projectiontoward center 125. Of course an outwardly directed “concave” sectioncould be characterized as an inwardly directed convex section.

Analogous to projection 70, in a typical arrangement the curvature ofconvex sections 115 is generally selected, so as not to rest on a circlesurrounding a center 125 of the receiver groove 111. Typically, thecurvature of each convex section 115 is selected to have a narrowercurvature, than a corresponding circle around 125.

The particular serpentine receiver groove 111 depicted is defined byouter wall 112 and inner wall 113. Outer wall 112, then, has innerconvex sections 112 c and concave sections 112 d; and, inner wall 113has outer convex sections 113 c and concave sections 113 d. For theparticular example shown, each of walls 112, 113 is, independently,continuous, closed and solid.

In the particular example shown, the groove 111 has eight convexsections and eight concave sections. The groove 111, forms a octagonalor outwardly directed, petal shape, as previously discussed with respectto projection 70, FIG. 5A.

Groove 111 is shaped to receive projection 70 projecting therein whencartridge 25 is installed in air cleaner 1, FIG. 2.

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, example dimensions are indicated, for theassembly 1 depicted and described herein. Of course alternativedimensions are possible, and alternate applications that techniquesdescribed herein. Referring to FIG. 7, DI=26.3 mm; DJ=8°; DL=9°; DK=3.5mm; and, DH=2.8 mm. Referring to FIG. 6, DA=10 mm; DB=45°; DC=22.5°;DD=95.6 mm diameter; DE=28.3 mm diameter; DG=5 mm; and, DF=14.5 mmradius.

The receiver groove of 111 will typically be at least 10 mm deep,usually at least 15 mm deep and often within the range of 20-40 mm deep,although alternatives are possible in some applications of thetechniques described herein. In general, the depth of groove 111 ismeant to be the dimension as indicated at DI, FIG. 7.

The groove 111, then, can be viewed as defined between walls 112, 113,which join one another along base 115, FIG. 7A. In a typical receiverarrangement 110, the groove 111 will be no more than 14 mm wide andtypically 5-12 mm wide, inclusive, in a region extending from bottom orbase 115 at least 60% of the distance toward an opposite open end 116,FIG. 7. Of course adjacent end 116, the groove 111 can flare outwardlysubstantially, to facilitate engagement with projection 70.

The width of the groove 111 and corresponding thickness of theprojection 70 should be selected such that once the projection 70extends into the groove 111, the cartridge 5 cannot be readily rotatedrelative to the access cover 4, due to interference between theserpentine projection and the serpentine groove. This is followed by theselected curvatures to concave and convex regions described.

In FIG. 8, a schematic cross-sectional view is provided depicting endcap 27, FIG. 5, in engagement with access cover 4, FIG. 7. Inparticular, projection member 70, FIG. 5, is seen to be received withinreceiver groove 111, FIG. 7. In FIG. 8A, an enlarged fragmentary view ofa portion of FIG. 8 is depicted. In Fig. B, an enlarged, exploded, viewis provided.

Attention is now directed to FIG. 9, an enlarged fragmentary view of theinlet 15, FIG. 1. In FIG. 9 example dimensions are indicated as follows:ED=180 mm; EH=2.5 mm; EA=2.5 mm; EE=190 mm; EB=2.5 mm; EI=2.5 mm;EF=25.4°; EJ=20.4°; EK=51°; EG=41°; EM=8 mm radius; EC=60 mm radius;and, EL=300 mm radius.

II. The Example Projection/Receiver Support Arrangement

Referring again to FIG. 8, the arrangement comprising projection 70 andreceiver groove 111 is referred to herein, generally, as aprojection/receiver arrangement 130, allowing for engagement betweenaccess cover 4 and cartridge 5, along closed end cap 27 of cartridge 5.The projection/receiver arrangement 130 provides, for example, forsupport against cantilevered motion of the cartridge 5 within thehousing 2 of air cleaner 1, FIG. 2. That is, cartridge 5 cannot movesubstantially up or down or back or forth, at end 27, due to support ofend piece 27 by receipt of projection 70 into groove 111 on the accesscover 4.

Further, the particular projection/receiver arrangement 130 depicted, isa “anti-rotation” projection/receiver arrangement. By this, it is meantthat cartridge 5 and access cover 4 cannot rotate relative to oneanother, once there has been an engagement of the projection/receiverarrangement 130 (by projection 70 extending into groove 111). This isbecause the shape of the serpentine receiver groove 111 and theserpentine shape of the projection 70. In particular, the exampleserpentine (petal) shape prevents access cover 4 and cartridge 5 frombeing able to rotate relative to one another, once engagement hasoccurred. This is facilitated by curvatures as described.

III. General Principles

In general, as the example of FIGS. 1-9 shows, a projection/receiversystem is provided for interaction between a portion of an air cleanerhousing, specifically an access cover and a filter cartridge. Theexample projection/receiver arrangement includes a projection on thecartridge receivable within a receiver (groove) on the access cover.

The projection on the filter cartridge is configured so that it is notrequired for a portion of an end cap on which the projection ispositioned, to project substantially (greater than 10 mm) into aninterior of the cartridge. Although such a projection may be feasible insome instances, it is not a specific requirement.

The projection/receiver arrangement operates to inhibit cantileveredmotion of the closed end of the cartridge in any direction; and,prohibits rotation of the cartridge once positioned in the housing. Thisis because the receiver is a groove having a non-circular, serpentine,shape; and, the projection is configured so that when received in thegroove, undesirable levels of rotational movement and cantileveredmovement are inhibited.

Support to the filter cartridge of the closed end can be managed,without need for a shield/support ring extending around the outside ofthe cartridge, but spaced inwardly from the outside wall of the accesscover. Air flow in this region is, thus, not interrupted or disrupted.Further for the particular example depicted, air flow can move into anend of the access cover, with convenient direction of dust/water througha dust ejector, without having a shield blocking direct air flow intoportions of the cartridge.

The system presented is also advantageous so that it can be used toinhibit installation, in a selected air cleaner housing, of anunapproved or unauthorized cartridge. Thus, it can be used to facilitatequality control by the air cleaner manufacturer, engine manufacturerand/or equipment owner, with respect to service parts.

The system presented is also advantageous, in that it is relativelyinexpensive to implement. The access cover can be molded to have thefeatures needed, as well as the perform used as a closed end cap on thecartridge. Tolerances with respect to cartridge length, and media packinner and outer diameter, do not affect the operation of theprojection/receiver arrangement, to any appreciable, negative, extent.

IV. Additional Features

Attention is now directed to FIG. 7A. Receiver 110 includes a finarrangement 140 surrounding an outer portion thereof. Fin arrangement140, for the example shown, comprises three, evenly radially spaced fins141, only two of the fins being viewable in FIG. 7. Fins 141 generallyextend from an outer region 145 adjacent wall 4 x inwardly to receiverarrangement 110.

The fin arrangement 140 inhibits support to an unauthorized cartridge byextension around projection 110. Thus, in general, a replacementcartridge would not likely be supported by access cover 4 againstcantilevered motion, unless that cartridge 5 was also being supportedagainst rotational motion.

It is noted that during installation, once the access cover 4 isadvanced against the cartridge 5 sufficient for engagement of theprojection/receiver arrangement, it may be necessary to twist the accesscover slightly, until latches 21 are rotationally aligned with portionsof the body 3 to which they will engage. Such a rotational motion ispermitted, by the assembly. However once latches 20 are engaged, theaccess cover 4, engaged with a cartridge 5, will inhibit any undesirablelevel of further rotational motion.

V. Alternate Embodiments, FIGS. 10-19

In FIGS. 10-17, a first alternate embodiment is depicted. In FIGS. 18and 19, an alternate embodiment of an access cover as depicted.

Referring first to FIG. 10, an alternate air cleaner assembly 301 isdepicted. Many of the features of the air cleaner 301 are analogous tothose previously described. The air cleaner assembly 301 includes ahousing 302 having a housing body 303 and access cover 304. Filtercartridge 305 is mounted with an interior 302 i of housing 302. Thehousing 302 includes an inlet arrangement 312 and an air flow outletarrangement 313. Access cover 304 is removably secured to the housing tothe body 303, for service access to removable and replaceable filtercartridge 305. For the example shown, access cover 304 is secured inplace by a latch 315.

In FIG. 10, example dimensions are provided as follows: FA=31.9 mm;FB=52°; FC=596 mm; FD=263.6 mm; FE=183 mm; FG=182 mm; FH=34 mm; FI=60mm; FJ=50.5 mm; FK=280 mm; and FL=366 mm.

In FIG. 11, cartridge 305 is depicted. The cartridge 305 includes mediapack 350 comprising media 351 extending between first and second endcaps 352 and 353. The first end cap 352 can be generally analogous toend cap 26, FIG. 2. The media pack 350 surrounds and defines an openinterior 360. End cap 352 includes a central aperture 352 a surroundedby seal arrangement 352 b.

End cap 353 has some analogous features to the previously described endcap 27 including outer surface 353 x having a central portion 360including a projection 361 having a serpentine inner and outer surfaces361 i and 3610 respectively. With the particular cartridge 305 depicted,projection 361 is positioned on a central, outwardly projecting,platform 370. The projection platform 370 typically extends beyond themedia pack 350 a distance of at least 10 mm, often at least 15 mm, forexample 20 mm.

It is also noted that end cap 353 includes a plurality of spacedprojections 390 thereon, each extend axially away from the media pack350, in overlap with the media pack 350.

In FIG. 11, example dimensions are provided as follows: GA=45 mm; GB=20mm GC=12 mm; GD=303.7 mm; GE=168.6 mm; GF=303.5 mm, and; GG=491.2 mm.

In FIG. 12, an enlarged fragmentary schematic view of a portion of FIG.11 is viewable. Here one of the projections 390 is viewable. Also, aportion of inner liner 395, around which the media 351 extends, isviewable. Further, media standoff ring 396 is viewable.

In FIG. 12, example dimensions are provided as follows: HA=5.5 mm; HB=8mm.

In FIG. 13 an end elevational view of cartridge 305 is depicted, takentoward end cap 353. Here the spaced projections 390 are viewable, aswell as the central, serpentine, projection 361.

In FIG. 13 the cross-sectional line defining in FIG. 11 can be seen.

In FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of end cap 353. The cross-sectionalview is taken along line 14-14, FIG. 13, although in FIG. 14 only theend cap 353 is depicted not the remainder of the media pack. In FIG. 14,example dimensions are provided as follows: IA=3.8 mm; IB=303.5 mm;IC=223.8 mm; ID=10 mm; IE=72.2 mm; IF=2 mm; IG=25 mm; and IH=3 mm.Again, projection 361 is viewable, having serpentine inner surface 361 iand serpentine outer surface 361 o, generally as previously described.

In FIG. 15, an alternate cross-sectional taken generally along line15-15, FIG. 14, but only depicting end cap 353 as provided. Here,example dimensions are provided as follows: JA=65 mm; JB=45 mm; JC=20mm; JD=8°; JE=81.5 mm.

In FIG. 16, a cross-section of view of access cover 304 is viewable. Itcan be seen that the access cover 304 includes serpentine receivinggroove 410, configured to receive projection 361 and support cartridge305 in both non-rotational and anti-cantilevered port manner. Referringto FIG. 16, attention is directed to inner projection 420 in accesscover 304. The projection 420 on the access cover 304 helps to ensurethat a proper cartridge is positioned within assembly 305.

In FIG. 16, some example dimensions are provided as follows: KA=154.7mm; KB=128.4 mm; KC=7 mm; KD=3.5 mm; KE=8°; KF=3.5 mm; KH=366 mm;KI=358.4 mm; KK=354 mm; and, KJ=82.8 mm.

In FIG. 17, an end elevational view taken directed toward an interiorsurface of access cover 304 is depicted. Here, receiver 410 is viewable,as well as projection 420, and injection port 450. In FIG. 17, exampledimensions are provided as follows: LA=15 mm; LB=90°; LC=45°; LD=69 mm;LE=110 mm.

The example of FIGS. 10-17, indicates the utilization of a projection420 on an interior surface of an access cover 304, directed toward acartridge 305. Further, the cartridge 305 is provided with projections390 thereon, spaced radially around and outer edge of the cartridge 305,on a closed end cap 367, in a preferred manner.

In FIGS. 18 and 19, an alternate access cover 504 is depicted. Thealternate access cover indicates that alternate sides to access coverscan be used for assemblies according to the present disclosure. Forexample, access cover 504 can be used in place with access cover 304.The features depicted provide for analogous operation. Referring to FIG.18, for the example shown mention MA=121 mm.

Referring to FIG. 19, access cover 504 includes serpentine receivinggroove 510 and projection 520 having analogous operation to analogousfeatures in previously described embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 19, example dimensions are as follows: NA=74.7 mm;NB=48.4 mm; NC=7 mm; ND=3.5 mm; NE=8°; NF=366 mm; NG=358.4 mm; NH=354mm; NI=82.8 mm; and, NJ=3.5 mm.

VI. Further Example Features, FIGS. 20-28

Additional features in arrangements having general features in accordwith those previously described, are depicted in connection with FIGS.20-28. Referring first to FIG. 20, an air cleaner assembly 600 isdepicted, schematically, in side elevational view with portions brokenaway to show internal detail. The air cleaner assembly 600 includes ahousing 602 comprising a housing body 603 and removable access orservice cover 604. In the example shown, the access or service cover 604is secured in place by latches 607.

The assembly 600 includes removable and replaceable, i.e. serviceable,filter cartridge 605.

In general, the housing body 603, comprises a sidewall 610 having afirst open end 611 and a second opposite end 612 with a air flowpassageway 613 thereat. In the example shown, a housing 602 furtherincludes a second air flow passageway 615, in this instance in thehousing body 603.

Analogously previous examples, for the particular example shown, airflow passageway 613 is an air flow outlet passageway defined by outlettube 613 a, as shown by arrow 613 b. The airflow passageway 615 is aninlet air flow passageway defined by inlet tube 616 a.

Access cover 604 is removable from housing body 603, to leave housingbody 611 open for insertion or removal of cartridge 605.

Cartridge 605 comprises a media pack 625 extending between first andsecond opposite end caps 626, 627. In a typical arrangement, end cap 627will be a closed end cap, i.e. it has no aperture therethrough, throughwhich air can flow. End cap 26, however, will typically be an open endcap, including central flow aperture 629 therethrough around which themedia pack 625 extends.

The media 625 surrounds an open interior 630. The aperture 629 is in airflow relationship with the open interior 630.

In addition to primary filter cartridge 605, a secondary safety filtercartridge 631 is provided in open interior 30. Safety cartridge 631comprises media 632 extending between closed end cap 633 and open endcap 634. Open end cap 634 defines central aperture 635 in air flowrelationship with aperture 613 a.

The main cartridge 605 includes a housing seal arrangement 638 on endcap 626, removably sealed to a portion of the housing 602, when thecartridge 605 is installed. Similarly, safety filter 631 includes sealarrangement 639, removably sealed to a portion of housing 602, whensafety cartridge 631 is installed.

Media in the cartridges 605, 631, can be provided with inner and/orouter liners, for media support, as desired.

Still referring to FIG. 20, it is noted that the air cleaner assembly600 includes a projection/receiver arrangement 640, comprising in theexample shown, a first member 641 of the projection/receiver 640, on thecartridge 605; and, second member 642 of the projection/receiverarrangement 640, on the access cover 604. Although alternatives arepossible, the particular example depicted, member 641 is a projectionmember 641 a; and, member 642 is a receiver member, 642 a. This isanalogous to previous embodiments described.

The projection/receiver arrangement 640 can generally comprise aserpentine projection 641 a and serpentine receiver 642 a, analogouslyto previously described embodiments, although alternatives are possible.

Analogously to the access cover depicted in FIG. 17, access cover 604includes a projection thereon. This projection is indicated generally at650, FIG. 25. The projection 650 is spaced radially outwardly fromreceiver 642 a. In the example shown, the projection 650 does not extendradially completely around central axis 604 x, FIG. 25. This isanalogous to projection 420, FIG. 17, although the shape is different.Projection 650 inhibits an undesirably long cartridge from fittingwithin assembly 1, as this will result in interference with projection650.

Cartridge 605 provided with a closed end cap 627 having a plurality ofprojections 660 thereon. The projections 660 are depicted in FIG. 26, aview of end cap 627 directed toward an outer surface 620 thereof. In theparticular example shown, eight projections 660, radially, evenly,spaced, each generally adjacent an outer perimeter, 62′7 p, are shown onend cap 627. The projections 660 can be viewed in the cross-sectionalview of end cap 627, FIG. 27. Each projection 660 is typically at least10 mm long, usually at least 15 mm, and often at least 20 mm long,dimension L of FIG. 27. The projections 660 provide that the cartridge605 can be mounted in an alternate air cleaner assembly which provides asupport ring engaging the projections 660, with the projections 660extending around the support ring to provide cantilevered support. Thatis, the projections 660 are adapters, which allow the cartridge 605 tobe installed in certain alternate air cleaners, for example with analternate type of cantilevered support at the closed end 627 of thecartridge 605.

Attention is now directed to FIG. 28. In FIG. 28, end cap 627 isdepicted, toward a surface 627 i, which forms an interior surface, wheninstalled in cartridge 605, FIG. 20.

Hooks 670 are depicted on surface 627. The hooks 670 provide formechanical interlock to a hard polyurethane potting, when end cap 627 ispotted to the media 625, FIG. 20. The potting is shown generally at 672,FIG. 20.

Referring to FIG. 21, a side elevational view of access cover 604 isshown, rotated 180° from the orientation of FIG. 20. It is noted thatprojections 680 are viewable as mounts, for latches 607, but in FIG. 21,access cover 604 is shown without latches thereon.

In FIG. 22, an end elevational view of access cover 604 is shown, theview of FIG. 22 being generally toward an exterior surface. At 684 anejector port is shown. At 650 x, an external view of projection 650 isshown.

FIG. 23 is generally taken toward an interior surface of access cover604. Here, a first set of fins or ribs 685 is depicted. The first set offins or ribs 685 generally comprises fins or ribs aligned radially, onan interior surface 604 i of access cover 604. The ribs 685, then, arealigned with radii. The fins or ribs 685 extend along an inclinedsurface region of surface 604 i, extending generally outwardly. The ribs685 inhibit an inappropriate cartridge positioning seeking support toform an adjacent region surface 604 i.

Still referring to FIG. 23, a second set of fins or ribs 686 isprovided. The fins or ribs 686 are generally tangential, i.e.perpendicular to radii, in the example shown there are six fins or ribs686 generally defining an hexagonal pattern around, and spaced from,receiver 642 a. These fins or ribs 686 also inhibit the use of aninappropriate surface portion within interior 604 i, as a supportsurface for a cartridge.

FIG. 24 is a schematic cross-sectional view generally taken along line24-24, FIG. 22. Here one of the fins or ribs 686 is viewable incross-section. FIG. 25, previously discussed, is taken generally alongline 25-25, FIG. 22.

It is noted that in addition to fins or ribs 685, 686 inhibiting supportan improper cartridge in the housing, the fins or ribs 685, 686 alsoprovide for a stiffening of the access cover 604, in the regionsurrounding projection/receiver member 642.

Referring to FIG. 27, attention is directed to axial alignment ring 690,on an outer surface 627 o of end cap 627. An opposite surface 627 i, ofend cap 627 is also viewable.

Referring to FIG. 20, ring 690 is shown in axial alignment withprojection 691 on access cover 604. This region 691 of access cover 604is also viewable in FIG. 24. The alignment between projection 691 andring 690 again helps ensure that a proper cartridge is positioned withinhousing 602.

In more general terms, the cartridge 605 including on end cap 627, anouter, axial alignment ring 690. The axial alignment ring 690 isgenerally positioned circumscribing projection 641 a, and spacedradially therefrom. The axial alignment ring 690 is also a region ofprojection axially outwardly, from adjacent potions of end cap 627. Theaxial alignment ring 690 is positioned axial aligned with, and in someinstances to abut, ring 691 on cover 604. This engagement generallyinvolves ring 690 surrounding shoulder 692, FIG. 24, on cover 604; theshoulder 692 generally adjacent an inner portion of ring 691; the ring691 circumscribing receiver 642 a.

In general, the assembly of FIGS. 20-28 will operate analogously topreviously described arrangements. The additional featurescharacterized, help ensure that:

(a) the cartridge 605 is positionable in alternate air cleaner housings;and,

(b) an improper cartridge is not installed in housing 602.

VII. Summary of Detailed Description

In the figures, a specific example of an air cleaner assembly includingfeatures and components according to the present disclosure is describedand shown. There is no specific requirement that an arrangement includeall of the features described and depicted, in order to obtain somebenefit of the present disclosure.

In general terms, an air cleaner assembly is provided. The air cleanerassembly includes an air cleaner housing defining a housing interior.The air cleaner housing generally comprises a housing body and an accesscover.

In an example shown, the housing body defines a side wall and a firstend with a housing end surface and an air flow passage therethrough. Anoutlet flow tube projects both into the interior of the housing body andexterior of the housing body, the air flow passage projectingtherethrough.

The second end into the housing body, opposite the first end, is openand comprises an access end for installation and removal of the filtercartridge, during use.

The housing generally includes an air flow inlet therein. The air flowinlet can be in the housing body or the access cover. In the exampleshown, the air flow inlet is a side inlet in the housing body. This willbe typical.

The access cover includes a member of a projection/receiver arrangementthereon. In the example depicted, although alternatives are possible,the access cover includes a receiver, in the form of a serpentinereceiving groove on an inner surface of the cover. The serpentinereceiving groove is defined between inner and outer serpentine sidewalls. By the term “serpentine” in this context, it is meant that thegroove, which fully extends radially around a center, comprises aplurality of alternating outwardly directed convex and inwardly directedconvex (or outwardly directed concave) sections. Preferably the grooveis configured so as not to define, within the groove, a circular paththat avoids the serpentine (i.e., alternating convex outer and convexinner) sections.

A serviceable filter cartridge is operably positioned within the housinginterior. By the term “serviceable” in this context, it is meant thatthe filter cartridge can be installed within the housing and then beremoved from the housing, without damage to the cartridge or thehousing.

The filter cartridge comprises a media pack extending between first andsecond ends or end caps. The media pack surrounds and defines an openfilter interior. In general, the media pack includes filter media, andmay comprise one or more of a variety of forms of media. A typicalexample comprises pleated media extending around the open interior. Thepleated media can be provided in a cylindrical or conical form.

The media pack can include one or both of inner and outer liners, tosupport the media. A variety of liners can be used, including, forexample, plastic liners or metal liners. Typically liners, when used,have open volume, for permitting air flow therethrough.

When the media is pleated, it can be provided with a variety ofarrangements to maintain pleat spacing including, for example, adhesivebeads around the media pack, various types of corrugations in the mediapack and various types of folds in the media pack.

The first end cap of the example serviceable filter cartridge depictedhas an air flow aperture therethrough. The example cartridge includes aseal member thereon. An example seal member is depicted surrounding theair flow aperture and generally positioned to surround, and seal to, anouter surface of a portion of the outlet tube on the housing, along aportion projecting into the housing interior.

In the example depicted, the second end cap is typically a closed endcap and includes a member of the projection/receiver arrangementthereon. In the example shown, the closed end cap includes an outerprojection arrangement projecting in a direction away from the first endcap. The outer projection arrangement is supportably, non-rotatably,received within the receiving groove in the access cover.

By “supportably received within the receiving groove”, it is meant thatthe engagement of the outer projection arrangement on the second end capwith the receiving groove, prohibits the end of the cartridge which isclosed from undesirable levels rocking up and down or side to side,within the housing. By “non-rotatably” received within the serpentinegroove, it is meant that the engagement between the outer projectionarrangement of the receiving groove is such that the cartridge cannotsubstantially rotate independently of the access cover. As a result ofthe engagement between the projection arrangement on the cartridge andthe receiving groove, the cartridge is prevented from rotating anundesirable amount within the housing, when the access cover is inplace.

In a typical assembly depicted, the retaining groove is a serpentinereceiving groove, and the groove is a continuous groove positionedbetween first and second wall members. By “continuous” in this context,it is meant that the groove is not interrupted by projections extendingthere across which would block the groove. In a typical assembly, theserpentine retaining groove has an innermost portion (innermost 60%)which is no greater than 14 mm wide, into which at least a portion ofthe projection arrangement is received. That is, the narrowest portionof the serpentine retaining groove into which at least a portion of theprojection arrangement is received, is no more than 14 mm wide.Typically that portion of the retaining groove is within the range of 5to 12 mm wide, inclusive.

It is not meant, however, that no portion of the serpentine retaininggroove is wider. Rather, it is simply meant the narrowest, deepest,portion into which the projection arrangement extends, is typically asdefined, although alternatives are possible.

Typically, at least a portion of the projection arrangement extends atleast 8 mm into the receiving groove, usually at least 12 mm, and oftenwithin the range of 15 to 30 mm, inclusive.

Typically, the receiving groove is a serpentine receiving groove whichcomprises at least five (5) each of alternating concave and convexsections, in extension around a center. In a typical example, aserpentine receiving groove comprises a plurality of concave portionsand convex portions, in extension around a center, including six (6) toten (10) concave portions inclusive and six to ten (6-10) convexportions inclusive. It is noted that a concave section can be viewed asan inwardly directed convex section when viewed from the interior; and,a convex section can be used as an outwardly directed concave sectionwhen viewed from the interior.

In a specific example shown in FIGS. 1-9, the serpentine receivinggroove comprises eight (8) convex sections (outwardly directed concavesections when viewed from the interior) and eight (8) concave sections(inwardly directed convex sections when viewed from the interior); thesections alternating with respect to one another along the extension ofthe serpentine retaining groove around a center.

The serpentine receiving groove, when formed from a plurality of petalshaving the same size and shape, can be said to have a rotationalsymmetry corresponding to the number of petals. Thus the eight petalarrangement depicted, has an eight fold symmetry around a central axis.By this it is meant that the configuration can be rotated 1/8 of a turnand still align with itself, 2/8 of a turn, etc. A similar symmetry isprovided in the typical projection arrangement, depicted.

In the example depicted, FIG. 2, the access cover is provided with anouter, for example circular, side wall. The circular side wall can, insome instances, surround portions of the cartridge, in the assembledhousing. In an example depicted, the air filter cartridge is positionedin a housing with no portion of the access cover surrounding the airfilter cartridge other than the outer (circular) side wall. That is,there is no internal shield or flange, or cartridge support arrangement,or air flow directing arrangement, which surrounds the cartridge at theclosed end and which is inwardly spaced from the outer wall of theaccess cover.

In an example shown, the access cover includes an inner surface with aprojection region. The projection region includes the receiving groovetherein, and comprises an inner wall and an outer wall each of which isserpentine. A fin arrangement is shown extending radially outwardly fromthe projection region. Each of the fins projects generally toward thefirst end of the housing, from the access cover. There is typically atleast one fin, usually at least two, often 3-5. In the example depictedthere are three such fins. The fins provide strength and rigidity to theportion of the access cover in which they are positioned. In additionthe fins can be used to inhibit cartridge support by the access cover ina manner that does not involve the receiving groove.

When the fins are configured to inhibit support of the cartridge byprojection into the cartridge, the fins are sometimes referred to hereinas an “anti-cantilevered support” arrangement.

In an example shown, the access cover includes a second fin arrangementthereon, this fin arrangement comprising a plurality of tangentiallyoriented fins or ribs defining a straight-sided pattern around aprojection region (including a recess) on the inner surface of theaccess cover. In the example shown, this fin arrangement comprises sixfins or ribs defining a generally hexagonal pattern. These fins or ribsprovide stiffening in the access cover, as well as inhibit aninappropriate cartridge from obtaining support by the access cover 604.

The projection arrangement on the filter cartridge generally includes atleast one radially outwardly convex portion. The convex portion istypically positioned on a curve that does not correspond to a circlecentered around a center point of the second end cap.

Typically the projection arrangement on the serviceable filter cartridgeincludes at least one radially inwardly convex portion (i.e., at leastone radially outwardly concave portion.)

In the example depicted, the projection arrangement on the serviceablefilter cartridge includes a plurality of radially outwardly convexportions and a plurality of radially inwardly convex portions sometimesreferenced as outward concave portions. In the particular exampledepicted, these portions form a continuous, serpentine, wall. Theparticular example of a continuous serpentine wall depicted in thedrawings, is a closed, continuous, solid wall, i.e., it has no aperturestherethrough and is not hollow. Typically the projection arrangement ofthe serviceable filter cartridge projects away from an immediatelyadjacent region of the second end cap a distance of at least 10 mm,usually at least 15 mm and often within the range of 20 to 40 mm,inclusive.

Also typically the projection arrangement of the serviceable filtercartridge projects axially outwardly beyond an end of the media pack adistance of at least 10 mm, usually at least 15 mm and often within therange of 20 to 80 mm. That is, in a typical arrangement, the projectionarrangement is not part of a deep, inner, well, in the second end cap,which projects into the cartridge.

In an example depicted, filter cartridge includes an axial alignmentring on an outer surface of the closed end cap, surrounding and spacedfrom a projection on the closed end cap. The axial alignment ring ispositioned to align, and in some instances abut, an alignment ringpositioned on an inner surface of the access cover, surrounding andspaced from the receiver arrangement on the access cover. An innershoulder of the ring in the access cover, can be surrounded by the axialalignment ring on the filter cartridge, when installed.

Also, according to the present disclosure, an air filter cartridgearrangement is provided. The air filter cartridge is useable as aserviceable filter cartridge, in a air cleaner assembly. An example ofan air filter cartridge (and the corresponding air cleaner assembly) isdescribed and depicted.

In general, the air filter cartridge includes a media pack surroundingan open interior having first and second opposite ends. As previouslydiscussed, the media pack includes filter media. The media can be avariety of types of media, but will typically be pleated media.

The media pack can also include one or both of an inner and outer mediasupport liner. Typically plastic and/or metal liners would be used.

The media pack can be configured in a cylindrical shape or a conicalshape.

The cartridge includes a first end cap positioned on the first end ofthe media pack. The first end cap has a central air flow aperturetherethrough.

A seal is provided on the closed end cap. In the example depicted, aninwardly directed radial seal is provided on the first end capsurrounding the air flow aperture. This radial seal can comprise anintegral molded portion of the end cap, although alternatives arepossible. The first end cap will typically be molded-in-place, forexample from polyurethane foam.

A second end cap is positioned on the second end of the media pack,opposite the first end cap. The second end cap is typically a closed endcap. In an example shown, the second end cap includes a projectionarrangement thereon projecting away from the first end cap. Theprojection arrangement is non-circular and includes at least one arcuatesection; the at least one arcuate section having or defining an arccurve which is not co-extensive with a circle surrounding a center pointof the end cap. The at least one arcuate section can comprise a portionof a projection arrangement including a plurality of outwardlyprojecting convex sections, and inwardly directed convex sections, forexample alternating in a serpentine arrangement. The serpentinearrangement can comprise a single, continuous, wall around a center ofthe end cap.

The second end cap of the cartridge can further include an axialalignment ring on an outer surface thereof. The axial alignment ring isgenerally positioned surrounding, and radially spaced from, theprojection on the second end cap. This ring is positioned to align withthe axial alignment ring on the access cover, when the cartridge isproperly installed.

There is no specific requirement that an arrangement include all of thespecific features described and shown in connection with the exampledepicted herein, unless otherwise stated. An arrangement can includeonly selected ones of the features characterized herein, and stillobtain advantage according to the present disclosure.

What is claimed:
 1. An air filter cartridge comprising: (a) mediasurrounding an open interior and having first and second, opposite,ends; (b) first and second, opposite end caps including: an end cappositioned on the media first end; and, an end cap positioned on thesecond end of the media; and, (i) the end cap on the first end of themedia being an open end cap; (ii) the end cap on the second end of themedia being a closed end cap; and, (c) an axial projection arrangementpositioned on the second end cap and projecting away from the first endcap; (i) the axial projection arrangement has a radially inner facingsurface that faces toward an interior and open space, and a radiallyouter facing surface facing away from the interior and open space; (ii)the radially inner facing surface and the radially outer facing surfaceeach have a non-circular shape in a direction around the interior andopen space; (iii) the projection arrangement does not form a series ofstraight lines on the inner surface or on the outer surface in adirection around the interior and open space; and (iv) the projectionarrangement has a depth of extension of at least 6 mm away from anadjacent portion of the second end cap in a direction away from thefirst end cap.
 2. An air filter cartridge according to claim 1 wherein:(a) the projection arrangement has a minimum largest external dimensionof at least 35 mm and a smallest internal dimension of at least 15 mm.3. An air filter cartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) theprojection arrangement radially inner facing surface comprising aplurality of radially directed convex sections.
 4. An air filtercartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the projection arrangementouter facing surface comprises a plurality of alternating radiallydirected convex and concave sections.
 5. An air filter cartridgeaccording to claim 1 wherein: (a) the projection arrangement innerfacing surface comprises a plurality of convex sections.
 6. An airfilter cartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the projectionarrangement inner facing surface comprises a plurality of alternatingradially directed convex and concave sections.
 7. An air filtercartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the projection arrangementincludes a surface comprising at least five each of alternating concaveand convex sections, around a center.
 8. An air filter cartridgeaccording to claim 1 wherein: (a) the projection arrangement includes asurface comprising 6-10 concave sections and 6-10 convex sections,around a center.
 9. An air filter cartridge according to claim 1wherein: (a) the projection arrangement includes: (i) an outer surfacecomprising at least five each of alternating concave and convexsections, around a center.
 10. An air filter cartridge according toclaim 1 wherein: (a) the projection arrangement includes an outersurface comprising at least 6-10 each of alternating concave and convexsections, around a center.
 11. An air filter cartridge according toclaim 1 wherein: (a) the projection arrangement includes: (i) an outersurface comprising 6-10 concave sections and 6-10 convex sections,around a center; and, (ii) an inner surface comprising 6-10 concavesections and 6-10 convex sections around a center.
 12. An air filtercartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the projection arrangementcomprises a projection with an inside surface having a smallest insidedimension thereacross of at least 15 mm.
 13. An air filter cartridgeaccording to claim 1 wherein: (a) the projection arrangement comprises aprojection with an inside surface having a smallest inside dimensionthereacross of at least 20 mm.
 14. An air filter cartridge according toclaim 1 wherein: (a) the projection arrangement comprises a projectionwith an inside surface having a smallest inside dimension thereacrosswithin the range of 30-90 mm.
 15. An air filter cartridge according toclaim 1 wherein: (a) the projection has an end tip; and, (b) adjacentthe end tip the projection has inner and outer surfaces; (i) a thicknessof the projection, in a direction between the inner and outer surfaces,not exceeding 10 mm in at least a portion of the projection.
 16. An airfilter cartridge according to claim 1 including: (a) a radially inwardlydirected housing seal arrangement.
 17. An air filter cartridge accordingto claim 1 including: (a) a radially outwardly directed housing sealarrangement.
 18. An air filter cartridge according to claim 1 wherein:(a) the housing seal arrangement comprises molded-in-place foamedpolyurethane.
 19. An air filter cartridge according to claim 1 wherein:(a) the media is pleated.
 20. An air filter cartridge according to claim1 wherein: (a) the media is cylindrical.
 21. An air filter cartridgeaccording to claim 1 wherein: (a) the media has a conical taper.
 22. Anair filter cartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the wallsurrounding the recessed interior surface section comprises a continuouswall.
 23. An air filter cartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) thewall inner surface has a serpentine surface.
 24. An air filter cartridgeaccording to claim 1 wherein: (a) the wall outer surface has aserpentine surface.
 25. An air cleaner assembly comprising: (a) an aircleaner housing including an air flow inlet and an air flow outlet; (i)the air cleaner housing defining a housing interior and comprising ahousing body and an access cover; (b) an air filter cartridge removablypositioned within the interior of the housing; the filter cartridgecomprising: (i) filter media; (ii) a first end piece having a filteredair flow exit aperture therethrough; (iii) a radially directed housingseal arrangement positioned on the first end piece; and, (iv) a secondend piece opposite the first end piece; the second end piece being aclosed end piece; and, (c) a projection/receiver arrangement including:(i) a first member, on the second end piece of the cartridge, comprisinga projection arrangement including a plurality of radially outwardlydirected convex sections; and, (ii) a second member comprising areceiver member positioned on the housing and receiving, projectingtherein, the first member on the second end piece of the cartridge.